My family suffered a very traumatic experience. My youngest son, 10 years old, was struck by a car while walking with a group of neighborhood friends in our peaceful and wonderful subdivision. You can imagine the fear, anxiety, and how shaken up all 5 of us were. After arriving at our local emergency room, we experienced the calmest and most caring environment, mostly in part to our nurse, Kate.

My sweet 10-year-old was terrified, but she stayed right with him. With a fractured jaw, my son couldn't really speak, but Kate found a way to communicate with him, talked with him about things he loved, and ensured his pain was managed. My husband and two other children needed her as much as my son did. She spoke so calmly and reassuringly to all of us. She answered all our questions, even from my children. Our time with Kate was short, as we were transported to a larger hospital with a specialized team and pediatric center. But her impact on all of us is still being felt over a week later.

After jaw surgery, my son typed a message to me on my phone, asking to "please see Kate". She called us to check in on him a couple of times throughout his hospital stay, and made sure when he was up for it, for a visit. My son received exceptional care throughout, but Kate's calmness, wisdom, and knowledge helped us endure the most terrifying situations we have faced as a family. It was above and beyond care that we are so thankful for. She's become a friend who we all feel was placed to care for our son and family for a reason. Forever grateful.